A level results show more doing maths and sciences than ever before

Elizabeth Truss comments on the rise in the number of students taking A levels in subjects like maths and the sciences.

Science student looking at test tubes

A level results published today by the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) show there has been a big rise in the number and proportion of young people taking A levels in maths, physics, chemistry and biology – subjects that are highly valued by employers and universities.

There are more students doing maths, further maths, physics, chemistry and biology at A level than ever before – both in terms of number of entries and as a percentage of the cohort.

Education Minister Elizabeth Truss said:

It is extremely encouraging that there has been such a significant rise in the number of students taking A levels in subjects like maths and the sciences.

These subjects are not just fascinating and worth studying for their own sake – they are also the ones which open up modern, high-tech careers and are most in demand by employers and universities. This is good for the economy and will help the UK compete.

Background information

A level entries as a percentage of cohort (England)

2001

2010

2011

2012

2013

% change 2010-2013

Biology

7.9

7.7

8.4

8.5

8.8

14.3

Chemistry

5.5

5.9

6.6

6.8

7.3

23.7

Physics

4.6

4.1

4.5

4.7

5

22

Mathematics

10.1

10.4

11.6

11.8

12.4

19.2

Business studies

5.7

4.3

4.1

4

3.9

-9.3

General studies

14.6

6.9

6.2

5.3

4.8

-30.4

Law

1.5

2.1

2

1.9

1.8

-14.3

Media / Film / TV studies

2.5

4.6

4.7

4.5

4.1

-10.9

Drama / Performing / Expressive arts

2.3

2.8

2.7

2.5

2.3

-17.9

Source: JCQ figures for all entries and ONS population estimates for those with academic age 17 in each year